After Khamenei, who will rule Iran Power struggle names emerge
Tehran (The Uttam Hindu): After reports claiming that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed in an alleged joint operation by the United States and Israel, speculation has intensified over who might become the country’s next supreme leader. Although there has been no official confirmation, discussions about succession have gathered momentum across political and religious circles.
Under Iran’s constitutional system, the responsibility for choosing the new Supreme Leader lies with the Assembly of Experts, a council of 88 senior Islamic scholars whose members are vetted by the Guardian Council. In the event of a vacancy or inability of the Supreme Leader to perform duties, this body begins the formal selection process.
Iran does not designate a fixed successor in advance, so no single candidate is assured of the position. However, several influential religious and political figures are being discussed as possible contenders.
Hujjat-ul-Islam Mohsen Qomi is regarded as being close to the current leadership and has strong links with Iran’s religious establishment. He is often viewed as a candidate who would maintain continuity.
Ayatollah Mohsen Araki, a long-time member of the Assembly of Experts, is considered a strong contender due to his religious authority and institutional experience. He is believed to enjoy considerable support among conservative circles.
Ayatollah Alireza Arafi has held key roles in both the Assembly of Experts and the Guardian Council. As head of Iran’s seminary system, he is widely respected in religious institutions and is seen as a trusted clerical figure.
Ayatollah Hashem Husseini Bushehri, also a member of the Assembly of Experts, holds significant religious standing. Although his name appears less frequently in public debate, he is still viewed as a possible candidate.
Ayatollah Gholam Hossein Mohseni Ejei, Iran’s judiciary chief and a former intelligence official, is another prominent name. His close ties with the political leadership and security establishment make him a serious contender.
Attention is now focused on any official announcement and a possible meeting of the Assembly of Experts, as the choice of a new Supreme Leader is expected to have major consequences for Iran’s domestic politics and regional affairs.